Imagine a $1 billion, 60-acre resort oasis destination rising from the Arizona desert landscape. Imagine a hotel room transforming into the most incredible concert seat to view world-renowned artists and entertainers performing from the $40 million stage in an unprecedented amphitheater and live entertainment venue. Imagine an island escape inspired by the most exotic beaches in the world now set at the center of a resort destination.
It takes a visionary to go beyond imagining and disrupt the status quo. With the arrival of Arizona’s new VAI Resort in 2024, the luxury travel, hospitality, and entertainment experience will evolve and transform. Led by Grant Fisher, the 27-year-old hospitality entrepreneur, and the VAI Global Development team, VAI is the manifestation of a dream to create the world’s most iconic resort in the most unexpected yet perfect location.
“Traveling has always been a passion of mine, and it’s what inspired me to dream big. VAI Resort was born from my experiences exploring different parts of the world and wanting to bring this global perspective to my backyard,” says Grant Fisher, President and CEO of VAI Global Development and an Arizona native. “Our mission is to redefine the luxury hospitality experience while incorporating the thrill of live entertainment. VAI is a one-of-a-kind destination set to exceed all expectations and leave a lasting impression on our guests.”
Upon opening, VAI Resort will not only be the largest hotel resort destination in the state of Arizona, but it will also be the most dynamic. Ideally set in Glendale, at the heart of Metro Phoenix, VAI will redefine the concept of a full-service resort hotel by delivering a multi-faceted experience. With an overall design inspired by the sounds and rhythms of music, state-of-the-art entertainment venues, curated culinary concepts, and a first-of-its-kind, live music and concert venue, VAI will live up to the spirit of the word which is described as: a behavior, a lifestyle. Synonym for “awesome.” Something or someone can be qualified as “vai” when it reaches a peak of motivation and total fun.”
Offering more than 1,100 luxury rooms, suites, and villas across four distinct towers, guests can select the perfect accommodations to match their aura. Each tower and room design has been purposefully imagined. Whether partygoer, retreat seeker, group, family, or trailblazing traveler who must be the first to explore, all can find their place at VAI Resort.
Entertainment
A new multi-level, multi-functional live music and concert venue will attract the biggest names in music and comedy to perform under the desert stars. It will also transform the Muse Tower guest rooms into the best seats in the house. This venue creates an unforgettable live music experience for fans and the unprecedented venue brings together 8,000+ fans for an unforgettable entertainment experience by creating multiple viewing options that are never more than 200 ft away from their favorite performer. The 160 Muse Tower balcony rooms double as private viewing concert sky boxes for six to up to 25 concert-goers and the VIP Skyboxes offer premium stage-center views with private bars. In addition, there are nearly 2,500 stadium-style seats, front and center to the stage. At VAI, a truly multi-experiential vacation destination, the party doesn’t stop after the encore ends.
Island Life
The spirit of “awe” found throughout VAI reaches an apex at Konos Island. Designed to become the epicenter of fun for the entire resort, Konos Island is the largest man-made party island in the U.S. and will redefine day-life entertainment. As the ultimate beach oasis, Konos Island is inspired by the sights and sounds of international destinations like Mykonos, Ibiza, and Tulum. Surrounded by the sparkling Caribbean-blue resort swimming oasis, Konos Island parties hard but luxuriates even harder. Konos features luxury daybeds and cabanas, authentic Mediterranean cuisine, and VIP bottle service. Guests will enjoy island vibes and the hottest DJs.
Beach Life
VAI is home to five acres of temperature-controlled, clear blue waters and nearly one mile of white sand beaches lined with exotic green palm trees. Private cabanas and beachside activities create the energy of the most enticing beaches of the Caribbean and Mediterranean for year-round enjoyment.
Cuisine & Cocktail
Inspired by global cuisines, VAI features 12 signature restaurant concepts recasting the idea of experiential dining and drinking. From Mediterranean to Italian to Asian Fusion and the ultimate, modern steakhouse, nourishing mind and body via tasty temptations is the hallmark of a VAI vacation. VAI also takes imbibing to a new level for craft cocktail connoisseurs with 10 unique bar and lounge destinations across the sprawling property.
Mind/Body/Spirit
Whether soaking poolside in the warm Arizona sun, getting a glow on at the spa, or a vinyasa yoga flow on a white sand beach, VAI helps to reset and recharge. Rejuvenation is no joke, and VAI touts the latest exercise equipment, along with globally inspired spa treatments designed to soothe the spirit and revitalize the body.
Attractions & Retail
As the ultimate world-class destination, VAI also features unique attractions for thrill-seekers, the tethered Hot Air Balloon that can transport up to 30 guests to new heights over VAI resort and the 130-foot-high Konos Sky Bar, where sipping and stirring will come with spectacular views. Multi-generational guests can step into the action-packed world of Mattel Adventure Park™, the only place where you can get behind the wheel of a lightning-fast Hot Wheels go-kart, join Thomas & Friends on a treasure hunt journey and enjoy a signature pink beverage on the third story rooftop of The Barbie Beach House. If keeping grounded is preferred, VAI will offer 80,000 sq. ft. of approximately 40 luxury retail destinations, curated art galleries, and one-of-kind experiential activations.